'Unthinkable' to keep Tucker

It is truly “unthinkable” that the Kershaw County Democratic Party would certify Sammie Tucker Jr. as a candidate for public office. To entertain that idea is ludicrous! To readily admit to people that he is not only an incumbent candidate for office but is actually the current Kershaw County Council Vice Chairman should be embarrassing to all citizens of Kershaw County. Realize, too, that Mr. Tucker is set to have no opposition!! Have our citizens completely given up on our political system? Are they now satisfied to let “whatever happens happen?”

Tucker, as reported in the Chronicle-Independent July 20, 2012, “has not filed statement of economic interest (SEI) forms since 2010, a violation of the state’s campaign law.” “. . . SCEC records indicate that all current public officials, except Tucker, filed their 2011 and 2012 SEIs.” It was also reported in the same issue that Tucker “owes the commission $21,000 in late filing fees and fines in connection with his 2010 run for Kershaw County sheriff.” And his excuse for his ethics violation fines . . . . .Tucker stated it was difficult for him to file the necessary paperwork because of his lack of “ready access” to a computer. Mr. Tucker obviously believes the general public will accept that statement and feel sorry for him. Does he realize there are libraries, schools, government officials, friends who would perhaps be willing to provide access to a computer?

If, in fact, the Kershaw County Democratic Party certifies this candidate, Sammie Tucker Jr., to be placed on the general election ballot, then we should all “throw up our hands” and admit that we, as responsible citizens are truly willing to let “whatever happens happen” and that we are no longer concerned as to the ethical conduct of some of our public officials.